The Mandela Rhodes Foundation has opened applications for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship, a fully funded leadership and postgraduate scholarship opportunity designed for outstanding young African leaders.
The scholarship combines financial support, leadership development, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help young Africans develop the skills and values needed to create positive change across the continent.
Successful scholars will study towards a one-year Honours degree or a two-year Master’s degree at a recognised South African higher education institution.
About the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is a leadership programme inspired by the values and legacy of Nelson Mandela.
The programme focuses on developing young African changemakers through four core principles:
- Leadership
- Reconciliation
- Education
- Entrepreneurship
The scholarship aims to equip scholars with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership abilities required to contribute to Africa’s development.
Scholarship Benefits and Funding
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support covering the major costs associated with postgraduate study.
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition and registration fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Study materials allowance
- Research allowance
- Medical aid
- Personal allowance
- Economy-class travel between the scholar’s home country and South Africa at the beginning and end of the programme
This allows selected scholars to focus fully on their studies and leadership development journey.
Degree Programmes Supported
The scholarship supports:
Honours Degree
A fully funded one-year Honours programme at a recognised South African university.
Master’s Degree
A fully funded two-year Master’s programme in any field of study at an approved South African higher education institution.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Be between 19 and 29 years old in the year of application
- Have completed or be completing an undergraduate degree with excellent academic results
- Have the ability to study at postgraduate level in English
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to positive change
Applicants are expected to show evidence of qualities aligned with the Mandela Rhodes values.
Leadership Qualities Sought
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation looks for candidates who demonstrate:
Leadership
Applicants should show the ability to inspire others, create solutions, and lead with integrity.
Reconciliation
Candidates should value equality, freedom, human rights, and building a more just society.
Education
Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence while using knowledge to create meaningful impact.
Entrepreneurship
Candidates should show innovation, creativity, and commitment to Africa’s advancement.
Leadership Development Programme
Beyond financial support, Mandela Rhodes Scholars participate in an intensive leadership development programme.
The programme includes residential workshops designed to develop:
- Self-awareness
- Leadership skills
- Personal growth
- Problem-solving abilities
- Collaboration with other African leaders
Scholars become part of a growing network of young African professionals and changemakers.
Study Location
Successful applicants will study at recognised universities in South Africa.
International applicants from outside South Africa may need to complete qualification verification through the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) before beginning their studies.
Application Timeline
Applications follow an annual cycle.
For the Class of 2028:
Applications Open: 9 March 2027
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their academic documents, personal statements, and supporting materials before applications open.
Why Apply for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship?
The scholarship offers young Africans an opportunity to:
- Receive full financial support for postgraduate studies
- Join a prestigious African leadership network
- Develop leadership and entrepreneurship skills
- Connect with like-minded changemakers
- Gain international exposure
- Build solutions for Africa’s future
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is ideal for young Africans who want to combine academic excellence with leadership and social impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply online through the official Mandela Rhodes Foundation application platform.
Applicants should review the eligibility requirements, prepare their documents, and submit their applications during the official application period.
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